What to do to beat the heat

With temperatures already having broken triple digits, and more hot weather expected soon, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta advises the following precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses:

• Drink plenty of fluids during vigorous or outdoor activities (including sunbathing), especially on hot days. Drinks of choice include water and sports drinks; avoid alcohol and fluids with caffeine such as tea, coffee and cola, as these can lead to dehydration. • Dress your child in light-colored, lightweight, tightly-woven, loose-fitting clothing on hot days. • Schedule vigorous activity and sports for cooler times of the day. Take rest periods in shady or cool areas. • Protect children from the sun by having them wear a hat and sunglasses and by using an umbrella. Use a sunscreen that is at least SPF (sun protection factor) 15. • Increase time spent outdoors gradually to get your child’s body used to the heat. • Teach children to take frequent drink breaks and “wet down” or mist themselves with a spray bottle to avoid becoming overheated. • Try to spend as much time indoors as possible on very hot and humid days. • Do not leave children unattended in a hot automobile. • Teach children to warm up and cool down before and after exercising. • If your child has a medical condition or is taking medication, consult your child’s physician for further advice for preventing heat-related illnesses.